Justin Gaethje has clarified his future plans in the UFC, stating he will compete again, but under a specific condition.
The former BMF Champion wasn`t pleased about being passed over for the next lightweight title opportunity. According to the article, former champion Charles Oliveira was chosen to face the undefeated Ilia Topuria for the vacant lightweight title at this year`s International Fight Week, instead of Gaethje.
The source notes Oliveira`s recent record stands at 2-2 over his last four fights, while Gaethje has a 3-1 record in his recent bouts, with the only defeat being a brutal knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300 in April 2024. UFC analyst Din Thomas suggested Gaethje would have been a more exciting opponent for Topuria but speculated that the recent KO loss likely influenced the UFC`s decision to select Oliveira instead.
Following his disappointment over the title snub, Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, controversially claimed Gaethje would retire unless he was guaranteed a title shot. This would mark Gaethje`s third attempt at an undisputed title, having previously lost two challenges, contrasting with his rival Dustin Poirier who received a third title opportunity against Islam Makhachev last year.
Gaethje, indicating he is no longer fighting solely for entertainment, has now addressed his manager`s public ultimatum regarding retirement.
Gaethje Aims Only for Title Shot Against Oliveira vs. Topuria Winner (Based on Article`s Premise)
Appearing to rule out fights against other potential contenders such as Arman Tsarukyan or Paddy Pimblett, Gaethje seems determined to only pursue a lightweight title fight at this stage of his career.
Gaethje believes he is due a title shot, referencing his recent strong performances (the article mentions a near-finish of Rafael Fiziev, though his most recent high-profile fight was the loss to Holloway).
“I’m waiting for the winner of Ilia and Charles,” Gaethje told MMA Fighting’s Jose Youngs. “I’ll be there. That’s who I wanna fight.”
Addressing the retirement talk, Gaethje commented, “Let’s see how it goes. Catch me on a certain day. I’ll tell you a certain thing. It’s a very emotional sport, but, I try not to speak too out of pocket when I’m emotional, which is right now. So, I’m gonna fight again in the future. Has to be the champion.”
Justin Gaethje Comments on Ilia Topuria`s Potential Welterweight Move
According to the article, as Ilia Topuria potentially prepares for a fight at lightweight, he has also discussed the possibility of moving up to the welterweight division. This move is reportedly aimed at pursuing a third championship belt, with mentions of challenging Islam Makhachev (although Makhachev is the lightweight champion).
Gaethje shared his perspective on Topuria`s stated interest in moving up a weight class.
“I can’t control any of that, so I don’t spend no energy on it,” Gaethje stated regarding Topuria`s potential welterweight move. “But, sounds stupid to me,” he added.
